Pressure-Modulated, Electroosmotic Flow-Driven DNA Translocations Determine DNA Super-Structure

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Electroosmotic flow (EOF) is crucial for single-molecule sensing of DNA and proteins.
• Electrophoretic force (EPF) opposes DNA motion during translocation.
• Understanding fluid flow dynamics is key to controlling DNA behavior in nanopores.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how pressure-induced fluid flow affects EOF-driven DNA translocation.
• To explore the modulation of DNA capture and superstructure by opposing fluid flow.
• To demonstrate enhanced DNA manipulation and gating using combined EOF and pressure-driven flow.

Main Methods:

• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to confirm EOF strength.
• Experimental manipulation of pressure-induced fluid flow opposing EOF.
• Analysis of DNA translocation dynamics and pore entry.
• Demonstration of DNA gating using controlled pressure biases and pore sizes.

Main Results:

• EOF is strong enough to drive DNA through pores against EPF.
• Opposing pressure-induced flow linearizes DNA molecules during translocation.
• DNA gating is achievable with lower pressure biases and smaller pores than previously reported.
• Unique exterior flow profiles modulate DNA entry into the pore.

Conclusions:

• Pressure-induced fluid flow offers a novel method to control DNA translocation dynamics.
• Combined EOF and pressure-driven flow enhance DNA manipulation for sensing applications.
• This study advances nanopore technology for DNA analysis and gating.